Driving Cost from Columbus, Indiana to Knoxville, Tennessee

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Trip: Columbus, Indiana to Knoxville, Tennessee

If you are planning a trip from Columbus, Indiana to Knoxville, Tennessee, one of the first things you may want to consider is the cost of the journey. With fluctuating gas prices and various route options, it can be helpful to have a clear understanding of the potential expenses involved. In this article, we will explore the different possible routes, highlight the cost and distance of each one, and ultimately recommend the best route based on current gas prices.

Route Options

When traveling from Columbus, Indiana to Knoxville, Tennessee, there are a few different routes to consider. The most common route is via I-65 South and I-65 South, which is the shortest path at approximately 320 miles and a driving time of around 4.5 to 5 hours. Another option is to take I-70 East and I-75 South, which adds a bit of distance at around 340 miles and a driving time of 5 to 6 hours. Lastly, there is the option of taking US-50 East and I-75 South, which is the longest route at approximately 360 miles with a driving time of 5.5 to 6.5 hours.

Cost and Distance

With gas prices constantly changing, the cost of a trip can vary depending on the route taken. As of [insert current date], the average gas price in Columbus, Indiana is $2.80 per gallon, while in Knoxville, Tennessee, it is $2.60 per gallon. Using these prices as a reference, let's break down the potential cost and distance of each route.

I-65 South Route

The I-65 South route is the shortest at approximately 320 miles. With the average fuel efficiency of a car being around 25 miles per gallon, this trip would require approximately 12.8 gallons of gas. At $2.80 per gallon, the total cost for gas would be around $35.84. Keep in mind that these calculations are based on current gas prices and may fluctuate.

I-70 East and I-75 South Route

Taking the I-70 East and I-75 South route adds a bit of distance at around 340 miles. This would require approximately 13.6 gallons of gas, resulting in a total cost of around $38.08, based on the average fuel efficiency and current gas prices.

US-50 East and I-75 South Route

The US-50 East and I-75 South route is the longest at approximately 360 miles. With a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, this trip would require approximately 14.4 gallons of gas, resulting in a total cost of around $40.32, based on current gas prices.

Based on the cost and distance breakdown, the I-65 South route appears to be the most cost-effective option. Not only is it the shortest route, but it also requires the least amount of gas, ultimately saving you money on fuel expenses. While the I-70 East and I-75 South route is slightly more expensive, it may be worth considering if alternate factors such as road conditions or traffic are taken into account.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when planning a trip from Columbus, Indiana to Knoxville, Tennessee, it's important to consider the cost of the journey. With fluctuating gas prices and various route options, choosing the most cost-effective route can help you save money on fuel expenses. Based on current gas prices, the I-65 South route appears to be the best option, offering a balance of cost and distance. Safe travels!